Astros Demote Player After Disastrous Game

Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Astros Demote Player After Disastrous Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 7, 2026 7:00 PM ET

The Houston Astros made a pitching change Tuesday after Mike Burrows endured another difficult outing against the Washington Nationals. Houston optioned the right-hander to Triple-A Sugar Land less than a day after he allowed seven earned runs in the Astros' 12-11 loss while recalling right-hander Alimber Santa.

Burrows struggled to keep the Nationals' lineup in check, giving up nine hits and two home runs across 4.1 innings. His toughest moment came when James Wood launched a grand slam, helping Washington erase Houston's early momentum in a game the Astros ultimately could not recover from.

The outing continued a frustrating first half for Burrows, who finishes his latest stint with a 4-9 record and a 5.99 ERA across 18 appearances, including 17 starts. He has also allowed 21 home runs this season, making Tuesday's roster move an opportunity for Houston to reset its pitching staff before the All-Star break.

We have made the following roster moves: pic.twitter.com/yOKbl6u7qa
— Houston Astros (@astros) July 7, 2026

The Astros announced the move through their official X account, recalling Santa from Sugar Land while optioning Burrows following Monday night's game.

Santa has impressed during his first taste of the majors this season. The 23-year-old owns a 0.71 ERA across 12.2 innings after making his debut in May and now returns to provide another multi-inning option out of Houston's bullpen.

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada (19)Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Burrows, meanwhile, will report to Triple-A looking to regain the command and consistency that eluded him over his last several starts. Houston can now evaluate other rotation options while giving the 26-year-old time to work through his recent struggles.

The Astros remain in the race atop the American League West entering the final stretch before the All-Star break. Santa gives the club another fresh arm immediately, while Burrows will try to earn another opportunity later this season with improved performances at Sugar Land.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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